New Years/Sylvester in Bamberg

In Germany, they call New Years, "Sylvester". It is named not after the Looney Toons character, but instead a former Pope who later became "Saint Sylvester". It is a huge celebration in Germany. Much more like our 4th of July, but much more extreme. It is a time for many traditions and it is also when all of the typically "orderly" Germans let it all go and celebrate! We have celebrated each year here with the same group of friends, and this year was no different (we weren't right in the city though this year, so it was a bit less extreme).  Truly a great way to ring in the New Year!!

The calm before the storm :-)

One of the traditions is to watch the 17 minute movie "Dinner for One". It is an English short film, but a huge German tradition.

It is quite funny (you can watch it on Youtube)

And the Rum/Sugar bowl or "Feuerzangenbowle" in German.

Another great tradition!

And of course fireworks!

It was quite damp and foggy this year, but fun nonetheless.

So pretty!!

Mia even lights them now (she is definitely "German" :-)) 

Prost at Midnight!!!

We even ran into some old friends on the street at Midnight - such a small world!!!

Prost to 2016!!!